Biological Soil Crusts: Structure, Function, and Management (Ecological Studies)
Editorial Reviews
Book Description
In arid lands, where vegetation is sparse or absent, the open ground is not bare but generally covered by a community of small, highly specialized organisms. Cyanobacteria, algae, microfungi, lichens, and bryophytes aggregate soil particles to form a coherent skin - the biological soil crust. It stabilizes and protects the soil surface from erosion by wind and water, influences water runoff and infiltration, and contributes nitrogen and carbon to desert soils. Soil surface disturbance, such as heavy livestock grazing, human trampling or off-road vehicles, breaks up the fragile soil crust, thus compromising its stability, structure, and productivity. This book is the first synthesis of the biology of soil crusts and their importance as an ecosystem component. Composition and functioning of different soil-crust types are discussed, and case studies are used to show the impact of crusts on landscape hydrology, soil stability, nutrient cycles, and land management.
Book Info
The first synthesis of the biology of soil crusts and their importance as an ecosystem component. Softcover.
--This text refers to the
Paperback
edition.
Biological Soil Crusts: Structure, Function, and Management (Ecological Studies),Jayne Belnap,Otto L. Lange,R. Klein-Rödder,Springer,3540410759,Agriculture - General,Environmental Science,Life Sciences - Botany,Life Sciences - Ecology,Science,Science/Mathematics,Soil Ecology,Soil biology,Soil crusting,Technology,Agriculture & Farming,Ecological science, the Biosphere,Science / Ecology,Soil crusts,Soil science, sedimentology,algae,arid areas,cyanobacteria,ecology,erosion,land use,lichens,mosses,soil
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